State and federal officials are taking new measures to help stop the potential spread of the Zika virus as the number of confirmed cases continues to rise in Delaware.
Those enrolled in Medicaid in Delaware can now get free over-the-counter mosquito repellant if they have prescription. That regulatory change is retroactive to July 1.
Delaware health officials confirmed a new case of Zika in the First State Friday, raising the total to 11 – all of them travel related. Six people in Florida contracted the virus locally, with nearly 5,500 confirmed cases in Puerto Rico.
Experts warn those who might be exposed to the virus should wear protective clothing, use mosquito repellant, and stay indoors if possible.
Zika has been linked to microcephaly in newborns – a birth defect that can cause significant developmental disabilities.
Aside from spreading through mosquitos, the virus can be transmitted sexually, with health officials urging people to use condoms for up to six months after visiting Zika hotspots.
